Children of the Eighties would certainly recognize the talent that came from actor George Gaynes. Though his credits dated back to 1955 and included such productions as “Rich Man, Poor Man,” it was through the TV series Punky Brewster, where he played occasionally grumpy older man Henry Warnimont, that he first became a household name. It was around that time, also, where he first played Commandant Lassard in the Police Academy movie series.
Later, Gaynes’ credits included Hearts Afire, Chicago Hope, and The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd.
Sadly, news comes today that the actor has died in North Bend, Washington at 98 years old. He is survived by his wife, Allyn Ann McLerie, who appeared with him on several episodes of Punky Brewster. In addition to his acting, Gaynes had quite the singing voice, as seen in the video below from his 95th birthday party.
George Gaynes was sadly not the first actor from Punky Brewster to pass away. Susie Garrett, who played Betty Johnson, died in 2002, and Brandon the Wonder Dog is surely no longer with us. Actress Soleil Moon Frye has posted a reaction online on Twitter.
Here’s what it said, since for some reason we can’t seem to embed it:
“The universe just gained a gigantic star. You will be in my heart and soul always & forever.
Your little Punky
RIP George Gaynes”
